Tips for Keeping your Home Pest Free

Pests like mice, rats, cockroaches, termites, spiders are everywhere, including, sometimes, your house. They come in search for shelter, food, and warmth. Although there are numerous ways to take care of the infestation or invasion, preventive pest controlis a crucial aspect of controlling and managing pests around the home.

It’s a great feeling to know that your home is pest free; after all, you don’t have to bump into a cockroach when you open the kitchen cabinet. You also don’t have to worry about seeing your wall deteriorate because the termites found a home in between them. Unfortunately, failing to do anything about pest prevention might only pave the way for the pests to walk right in. But the good thing is that there’s a lot you can do to ensure your home is pest free and stays that way for a long time.

Sealing areas in and around your home

You should inspect your home routinely for any holes or cracks – both outside and inside. Don’t forget to check for areas that are not so easily visible, like below the bathroom and kitchen sinks. Also look at areas around utilities, pipes, and wiring (outside and inside), and cover any spaces there.

Cover all small holes, cracks, and crevices that you can. If you find this to be hard, call a professional pest control company to help seal these areas as well as other hard to reach places. Sealing these up is a great way to ensure that pests have nowhere to creep into and hide.

De-clutter and clean

Vacuum frequently, and remove any unnecessary clutter (even papers) that can offer nesting and hiding spots for the pests. Whenever possible, store stuff in sturdy metal or plastic bins as cardboard boxes can be chewed through. In addition to that, ensure that all garbage is closed and thrown away on a regular basis. If you’re in an area that’s prone to rats or raccoon, do not leave trash outside; instead, take it to the dump or store it in an enclosed bin. And don’t forget to clean the garbage containers regularly.

Food storage

It’s highly recommended for you to store food in the fridge or sealed containers because food attracts pests. You should also wipe up any spilled liquids, crumbs and food immediately. Check the groceries as you’re storing them to keep off insects from invading. If your pet eats outside (or even inside), be sure to clear the dish off any leftovers as they are highly attractive to rodents.

Outside the house

Trim plants, shrubs, and tree branches, so they don’t extend toward the house. Do not stack items like firewood close to the home as this offers a place for insects and rodents to hide and nest. Whenever possible, raise stacks of firewood 12-18” above the ground. Clean gutters thoroughly and regularly and unclog the downspout if needed. Clear the compound of any items that can store water, like oil tires, pails, buckets, or flower pots. Insects breed in pooled water.

Conclusion

There’s a lot you can do to keep your home from pest invasion. However, the best solution is often to let a professional help. They have the knowledge, expertise, experience and the necessary tools to keep pests from your home.